American Red Cross says blood and platelet need is critical

$15 e-gift card for coming to give in late September

The American Red Cross continues to amplify the ongoing critical need for blood and platelets to keep the blood supply stable as fall begins. Donors of all blood  types, especially those with type O blood, those giving platelets and those who have never given before, are needed now.  

Only 3 out of 100 Americans donate blood. With the blood supply still at critical levels, every single  donation is key to making sure all patients relying on lifesaving transfusions, including car accident victims and those living with sickle cell disease, get the care they need. 

Fall into donating blood or platelets. Make an appointment to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. In  thanks, those who come to give by Sept. 30 will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Fall for details. 

Those who come to give Oct. 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Treat. 

For upcoming blood donation opportunities Sept. 23-Oct. 15, please visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter your local zip code.

In addition to providing lifesaving blood products, the Red Cross mobilizes relief to families affected by  disasters, trains people in lifesaving skills and provides services to active and veteran U.S. military  personnel and their families. Donors can feel good knowing that by supporting the Red Cross, they can  help family and friends in their communities and across the country. 

How to donate blood 

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED  CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an  appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A  blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.  Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law),  weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school  students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight  requirements. 

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at  the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood  Donor App.